MAP Line Projects and Resources

Historically, the IDB has carried out a wide range of projects to implement microeconomic reforms that improve the business climate and facilitate development. These are some of the major projects funded by the Better Conditions for Productivity (MAP) Line, part of the IDB Business Climate Initiative (BCI):

Jamaica

Agencies for improved financing

Since 2004, Jamaica has implemented a reform program that sets out to eliminate obstacles to the growth of its companies. The program was the result of public and private dialogue sponsored by the IDB Business Climate Initiative (BCI).

The front line of action is to provide access to financing for the poorest entrepreneurs. In Jamaica, the lack of credit information increases transaction costs both for banks and customers. More reliable data would improve the capacity of banks to determine risk, thus reducing requirements for collateral and guarantees for loans.

The government of Jamaica is developing a new legal and regulatory framework to establish credit agencies that can better manage personal financial information. The IDB, through the BCI, financed the action plan to establish the legal, regulatory and institutional framework, and supervisory mechanisms for credit agencies.

Uruguay

Intelligent reforms for SME development

A quick assessment enabled Uruguay to develop a program to bring down barriers to private sector development and help improve the sector’s performance. Launched in 2005 after broad-based and inclusive dialogue between government and business, the reforms led to the establishment of a Private Sector Office – one of the first measures suggested – funded with resources from the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF), part of the IDB Group.

Priority areas also include the approval of a new law on competition and an improved draft bill on bankruptcy. The Uruguayan government also modified the investment promotion regime to reduce processing times and to facilitate access by small and medium-size enterprises. It also simplified the tax system and took action to establish a one-stop shop for job creation.

Customer resources

The MAP Line can provide external sites from a variety of sources to help potential customers make their decisions